Murrieta Gets Boost In CDBG Funding: Good News For Nonprofits

MURRIETA, CA — More grant money will be available to nonprofits and other public agencies in Murrieta, according to the city, which announced Tuesday it will receive nearly double the amount of federal Community Development Block Grant funding in the next cycle.

The city expects to receive approximately $590,000 in CDBG funds, an increase of 82 percent from last year. Of that amount, up to $88,500 can go to nonprofits and other public agencies.

The CDBG program provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties for housing and expansion of economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income people. Up to 15 percent of a city's total CDBG annual allotment can go to nonprofits and other agencies; the remaining must be designated for city projects and programs.

Murrieta Mayor Gene Wunderlich said that a change in the city’s CDBG entitlement status is what brought more money locally.

“We have a longstanding partnership with the county to bring these important federal funds to our community,” Wunderlich said. “This year, the city and county, once again in partnership, were able to make some technical changes to our CDBG status, which brings a lot more funds to those in need. It’s a win, win, at a time when it’s needed most.”

The city is currently using some CDBG funding for its Back-to-Business grant program, which assists businesses impacted by COVID-19.

During the last CDBG funding cycle, $40,000 was allocated for Murrieta nonprofits, but slightly less was used:

· Rose Again Foundation $5,000
· Women’s Health Assistance Program $5,000
· S.A.F.E Violence Prevention for Health Families, $5,000
· Operation School Bell, $5,000
· Full STEAM Ahead, $5,000
· Murrieta Comprehensive Care Program, $15,000

"The city council has traditionally aimed to grant-out the full 15 percent," said Robin Godfrey, public information officer for the city. "The remaining city portion must go toward projects and programs that meet CDBG income and population guidelines. Examples include ADA ramps, senior center projects, Back-to-Business grants for COVID relief (for small businesses with lower-income employees)."

How To Apply For CDBG Funding Through The City Of Murrieta

Nonprofit groups and public agencies wishing to apply for CDBG grant money must meet CDBG criteria, with programs that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals, seniors, adults with disabilities, those experiencing homeless, or victims of domestic abuse. CDBG grants are not issued to individuals.

In addition, the city will be looking at specific benefits to the Murrieta community in accordance with the city council’s funding priorities, the city said. These include a focus on addressing food insecurity, supporting women and children, youth development, and domestic violence issues.

CDBG grant applications must be received by the city on or before October 30, 2020, and may be dropped off at the front desk in the City Hall Lobby during business hours.

Visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/cdbg for additional information on criteria and a link to the full application. For additional questions on the program and eligibility, contact Louie Lacasella in the city manager’s office at 951-461-6008, or email llacasella@MurrietaCA.gov.